Album Review: BakerzMillion – Live in Racine
While it is unlikely ever again to have a fan base on par with its 1950s-’60s heyday, hard bop jazz remains very much alive. And even with all manner of recording technology advancements, the way to hear hard bop is live and in person. There’s a thrilling interactivity that comes with experiencing the music as it’s created, on the fly and in real time.
But the next best thing is a well-recorded live album documenting such a performance. And that’s exactly what Live in Racine is: a six-tune set of inventive, spirited instrumental jazz from a six-piece band that draws upon Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers for inspiration. As its name telegraphs, BakerzMillion is co-led by trombonist Andy Baker and pianist Steve Million. This set, recorded live in February 2018 is an enthralling audio document.
Rather than leaning into standards and using them as a creative jumping-off point, BakerzMillion serves up an all-original set featuring for tunes form Baker and two from Million. The compositions are true to the aesthetic and spirit of classic hard bop, and the interplay among the musicians is crackling with electricity.
The lengthy opener, “Bluesish” showcases Million’s playing, but everyone else shines as well. “Bay Steps” is mellow and contemplative, and features some lovely and understated soloing from trumpeter Eric Jacobsen. “Eisenbleu” is a bossa nova-flavored showcase for Jim Galloreto’s saxophones. “Softly” reprises thee subtle and quiet approach. But the splashy “Second Hand Smoking” leans hard into the groove. And the six-piece presents itself as a (small) big band on the swinging closer, “State of the Estate.” A fine set start to finish, Live in Racine is sure to delight hard bop enthusiasts.
About the Author
Bill Kopp
With a background in marketing and advertising, Bill Kopp got his professional start writing for Trouser Press. After a stint as Editor-in-chief for a national music magazine, Bill launched Musoscribe in 2009, and has published new content every business day since then (and every single day since 2018). The 4000-plus interviews, essays, and reviews on Musoscribe reflect Bill's keen interest in American musical forms, most notably rock, jazz, and soul. His work features a special emphasis on reissues and vinyl. Bill's work also appears in many other outlets both online and in print. He regularly hosts lecture/discussions on artists and albums of historical importance (including monthly events Music to Your Ears and Music Movie Mondays), and is a frequent guest on music-focused radio programs and podcasts. In Spring 2023 he is co-teaching a history of Rock 'n' Roll at UNC Asheville's College for Seniors. He also researches and authors liner notes for album reissues -- more than 30 to date -- and co-produced a reissue of jazz legend Julian "Cannonball" Adderley's final album. His first book, Reinventing Pink Floyd: From Syd Barrett to The Dark Side of the Moon was published by Rowman & Littlefield in 2018, and in paperback in 2019. His second book, Disturbing the Peace: 415 Records and the Rise of New Wave, was published in 2021 by HoZac Books. His third book, What's the Big Idea: 40 Great Concept Albums will be published in 2024. Read even more about him here.